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- Tasks: Join a team investigating cell biology and hereditary spastic paraplegias in a dynamic lab environment.
- Company: Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, a centre of excellence in disease research.
- Benefits: Gain practical lab experience and enhance your research skills before pursuing a PhD.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in understanding molecular mechanisms of disease with cutting-edge techniques.
- Qualifications: BSc in biological sciences; experience in molecular cell biology or neuroscience preferred.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with opportunities for professional growth and development.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 £ per year.
Overview
Applications are invited for an enthusiastic and committed graduate research assistant to join a team investigating the cell biology of hereditary spastic paraplegias. This project is based in the group of Professor Evan Reid at Cambridge Institute for Medical Research and is funded for a minimum of 1 year. It would suit a recent biological sciences graduate who would like to obtain more practical laboratory experience before embarking on a PhD.
The project aims to understand the functions of hereditary spastic paraplegia proteins in the molecular pathogenesis of axonal degeneration. The work will be at the interface between cell biology (especially membrane traffic) and molecular neuroscience, and will focus on functional genomic synthetic lethality and fluorescent activated cell sorting (FACS)-based screens using iPSC-derived neuronal models of HSP. The lab employs an integrated approach that combines state-of-the-art cell biology, biochemistry, proteomics, functional genomics and stem cell-derived neuronal modeling. Cambridge Institute for Medical Research is a centre of excellence with a strong focus on understanding the molecular mechanisms of disease, and translating basic discoveries to clinically meaningful therapies. It is known for its positive research culture.
Requirements
- BSc in biological, biochemical or biomedical sciences by time of appointment.
- Experience in molecular cell biology or molecular neuroscience. Previous research experience is highly desirable, especially in one of the following areas: stem cell culture and neuronal differentiation, FACS, fixed or live-cell immunofluorescence microscopy, lentiviral delivery of RNA or DNA to cultured cells, CRISPR-Cas genome editing.
- Some knowledge of a programming language such as R or Python would be valuable.
Responsibilities
- Work under the practical supervision of a post-doctoral researcher to achieve the aims of the project.
- Work within an interactive group; maintain a friendly and collegiate outlook; have good written and verbal communication skills; be well-organised; and be able to work calmly to meet deadlines.
Application process
Click the \’Apply\’ button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online. Please upload a covering letter and CV in the Upload section of the online application. The covering letter should outline how you match the criteria for the post and why you are applying for this role. If you upload any additional documents which have not been requested, we will not be able to consider these as part of your application.
Please include details of your referees, including email address and phone number, one of which must be your most recent line manager.
Closing date: 20 October 2025
Interview date: week commencing 27 October 2025
For information about how your personal data is used as an applicant, please see the section on Applicant Data on our HR web pages. Please quote reference SE47411 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
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Research Assistant in Cell Biology [Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia] (Fixed Term) employer: Mctd
Contact Detail:
Mctd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Assistant in Cell Biology [Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia] (Fixed Term)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the team! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Professor Evan Reid's work and the lab's focus. This will help you connect your background in biological sciences to their specific projects, showing that you're genuinely interested.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for common interview questions related to cell biology and molecular neuroscience. Think about how your previous experiences, like any lab work or projects, can relate to the role of a Research Assistant.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your skills! If you have experience with techniques like FACS or CRISPR-Cas genome editing, be ready to discuss them in detail. Highlighting your practical skills will make you stand out as a candidate who can hit the ground running.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! Make sure your CV and covering letter are tailored to the job description. We want to see how you match the criteria and why you're excited about this opportunity at the Cambridge Institute for Medical Research.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant in Cell Biology [Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia] (Fixed Term)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to clearly outline how your skills and experiences align with the role. We want to see your enthusiasm for the project and why you’re the perfect fit for our team.
Tailor Your CV: Don’t just send a generic CV! Tailor it to highlight relevant experiences in molecular cell biology or neuroscience. We love seeing specific examples of your work, especially if they relate to the techniques mentioned in the job description.
Follow Application Instructions: Make sure you follow all the application instructions carefully. Upload your documents in the right section and include your referees' details as requested. We can’t consider any extra documents that aren’t asked for, so keep it simple!
Apply Through Our Website: Remember to apply through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application. Plus, it helps us keep everything organised, so we can focus on finding the best candidates like you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Mctd
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the key concepts of cell biology and molecular neuroscience. Familiarise yourself with hereditary spastic paraplegia and the specific techniques mentioned in the job description, like FACS and CRISPR-Cas genome editing. This will show your genuine interest and understanding of the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss any relevant research experience you have, especially in stem cell culture or immunofluorescence microscopy. Be ready to share specific examples of your work, what you learned, and how it relates to the project at the Cambridge Institute for Medical Research.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since good communication skills are essential for this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. You might be asked to explain complex scientific concepts, so try to simplify them as if you were explaining to someone outside the field.
✨Be a Team Player
The lab values a friendly and collegiate atmosphere, so highlight your ability to work well in a team. Think of examples where you've collaborated successfully with others, and be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to maintaining a positive research culture.
